Sunday, 5 April 2015

We have a variety of updates to share with you tonight, beginning with recent sightings of Kate out and about. Our friends at HRH Baby Watch and Kate & Pippa Style shared a snap of the Duchess shopping on Thursday. It looks like Kate was doing a spot of shopping for William judging by the baseball caps and jackets on display. The photo can be viewed here.

Kate looked stylish in her Seraphine Marina Maternity Coat, first worn in New York last December. The wool tweed bouclé has a defined empire line with frayed trim and black velvet ribbon detailing. It's in stock at the moment retailing for £275 ($495).

We also see Kate selected her gorgeous Stuart Weitzman Zipkin Boots for the outing. They feature a distinctive inner zip closure and a covered cigarette heel. Below we see Kate wearing them on a previous occasion alongside a product shot of the boots in black.

Splash/Stuart Weitzman

Kate's been enjoying her final weeks of pregnancy and appears to be feeling great. There were also several sightings of her shopping in Norfolk, purchasing kitchen and garden supplies and a new printer.

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Next, we're taking a look at the results of our Royal Baby Polls. They were such fun, and it was wonderful to see your votes and hear your choices in the comments section. So, without further ado the winners are...

An astounding 76% of you think the royal baby will be a girl. Many people would love to see William and Kate have a boy and a girl, and if I recall correctly during Kate's first pregnancy there were great hopes for a girl too.

If the next Baby Cambridge is a girl, your wining selections for her name are:

Charlotte Elizabeth Diana

Splendid choices if I do say so myself :) On a more serious note, I was surprised the bookies favourite 'Alice' didn't feature more prominently. We see Alexandra in fourth place with 855 votes.

In the boys category, the winning choices are:

James Philip Arthur

James would be a fine name for a little prince, but considering Kate's brother is called James we may not see it used for a first name. They are three great names which would work in any order. Philip Arthur James has quite a ring to it. The boys poll actually received more than a thousand votes less than the girls poll (you guys are really hoping for a girl, right? :))

Did your favourites win?

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Speaking of Kate having a girl, a news story is doing the rounds. More from Sebastian Shakespeare's story for the Mail Online:

'I am told that Oxford interior design company Annie Sloan has recently supplied three decidedly feminine paint samples to Anmer Hall, the ten-bedroom house on the Queen’s Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, which is currently home to the expectant couple.

The colours ferried to the household are understood to be Henrietta, a ‘beautiful rich complex pink with a hint of lilac’; Antoinette, a ‘soft pale pink with a hint of brown’ that is redolent of ‘old-fashioned roses and the colour of old plaster’; and Emile, a ‘warm soft aubergine colour with pink red undertones’.'

A look at Henrietta painted on a small French side table. It would be a beautiful hue for a nursery or many other rooms at Anmer Hall.

This collection is something new and fresh from the brand with an emphasis on fashionable, wearable and quality pieces which could take one from a wedding to a day at the races or the office. Tailored suits on offer include the Chanel-esque Pink Collarless V Neck Jacket and Long Pencil Skirt.

The Pemberley Coat in Peach Herringbone is a stunning garment. Cut from lightweight angora-blend wool this coat and accompanying dress will no doubt be a feature at many a social function this year.

Really Wild Clothing

The collection's Gatsby Coat is described as "a fun and fresh lightweight tweed". It has been designed with side pockets cut into the seam which are perfect for hand warming on chilly days. It comes in several colours.

There's so much to like in the collection and a plethora of possibilities for Kate. It's great to see local brands expanding whilst retaining a strong commitment to British Classic Heritage.

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We also have a spring update on Kate's much-loved L.K. Bennett Detroit Dress.

Due to popular demand, the brand has brought back a season update of the dress - the Delta Notch Collar Fitted Dress comes in barley sugar pink. The £250 dress has body contouring seams and short sleeves.

L.K. Bennett

Do you like the update?

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We'd like to wish you all a very Happy Easter. As you'll all remember, last Easter Sunday William and Kate attended a service in Sydney. The Duchess looked elegant in a bespoke dove-grey Alexander McQueen coat and Jane Taylor hat.

A quick reminder, on Thursday Kensington Palace will hold a press briefing for the royal baby. It will most likely compose of media arrangements outside the Lindo Wing.

147 comments:

I would love it if we saw them tomorrow! I am crossing my fingers that we will!I like the name Charlotte, but Chelsea Clinton named her baby Charlotte and I don't think they will 'copy'. I am hoping for a girl, but if they do have a boy then this baby and George wouldl be close like Will and Harry! Happy Easter Everyone!

I would love to see them tomorrow as well, but I am not holding my breath. I do find it interesting though that with George the Palace announced Kate's last engagement and yet this pregnancy they did not. I don't know if that means anything, but it leaves me hopeful that we may see her tomorrow. I am just being optimistic :)

Last time the palaced announced it the press ect, took the announcement as she was due any second...i think that is why so many gathered outside the hospital weeks before she was admitted. This time they are taking a page oug of the her majesty's book btmy remaining silent. I did here somewhere that the press will not be able to gather until Catherine is officially admitted...does anyone know if there is any truth to this?

If the Duke and Duchess do not know the sex of the baby like last time and is reported this time I don't think we should read too much into the paint colors. The colors would be lovely for a variety of purposes. The clothes from Really Wild were really nice and professional. I would just love to see Kate in any of them. Happy Easter all!

Whatever the world wants, doubtless we will all be happy for a healthy baby (and Mummy).Charlotte Elizabeth is lovely, but I really doubt the Diana---but we shall see.Re the paint--my bedroom has the Henrietta shade, so it could be for a room other than a nursery. Anyway I am surprised that any company would reveal what they had provided---certain to ensure they were never approached again.Nice if we saw them at Church this morning--last year they were in Australia.Love all the clothes you show---classic,

I cant believe its been a year since I was obsessing over the Australian tour, it was during that time I found this blog. Charlotte, James, Arthur and Elizabeth were all names I chose, so its good too see that they are the most popular ones. And I love that pink delta dress, which is strange because I never liked the blue one.

I was wondering when people think Kate's first engagement after the baby will be. I know someone said perhaps trooping the colour, but then that would mean nearly a whole two months of recovery after the birth and I think that would cause some criticism since Kate's on maternity leave but maternity leave from what exactly? She doesn't work, she just does an appearance a few times a month. Sorry to anyone who thinks I shouldn't be talking about her work at this time, as it should all be about her bonding with the baby, but its not much effort to make an hour or so long engagement, and I'm hoping this will be before trooping the colour.

I don't mind if she isn't seen at Trooping the Colour. 6-7 weeks spending resting with her babies is perfectly fine. I wouldn't be surprised if she didn't go to Trooping either.I think we will primarily get candid shots or tweets of her out and about this summer.

I respectfully disagree. As a new mom (whether it's your first or fourth child) it DOES take a lot of work to get dressed, do hair, makeup to look any where near decent with a baby less than 6 months old. Whether you do not have children Anon or have forgotten what it is like to have a newborn I encourage you to set your alarm every two and a half hours. Then force your self to stay up for an hour and wake up again in two and a half hours for weeks straight. As new moms this is the normal routine of having a newborn not even accounting for having to be awake all day to take care of your home and other children. No amount of help takes the burden of responsibility off of Kate's shoulders. I am due in July with my second child and am terrified of all the changes. I barely survived my first newborn months. He didn't sleep more than three hours at a time until he was 10 months old. Now he is so active and busy that I have to find ways to keep him occupied. We are constantly going to the park or playing with bubbles looking at books playing with sensory toys. There isn't a moment where he just sits for more than 10 minutes unless he is eating. I just ask you have a little grace and understand. I hate the argument that she has a nanny because the nanny is there to help. Even if nanny takes George I bet after a day or two of not seeing him Kate will want to be with him and miss him. Most mothers cannot just give their children over to someone and be okay with not seeing them or not being involved in their daily routine and nurture them.

I don't know if it is true....but there are reports saying Kate will take a longer maternity leave this time. 2 months with George was not long enough and she wants longer this time around. I fear that means we may not see her until September :(

Jessica I empathize with any woman with more than one kid. It is hard work and exhausting. BUT Kate is not a normal woman. She has a nanny, housekeeper, cook and her mom. If you really think that having a nanny, housekeeper and cook doesn’t make a difference, I am shocked. It takes a lot of the burden off of Kate's shoulders. Even just having one of those helpers makes a huge difference-even if that means just getting one full nights worth of sleep a week!! But all three/four makes life so much easier for Kate. I don’t have any problems with Kate having so much help, plus her mom. She is royal and that is great. But what I get tired of is people acting like Kate has such a rough life. That does a disservice to women who really do it all on their own, like yourself.

I think Kate did a lot of the tending to George in his first few months on her own-which is great. But this time around, it will be different. There have even been lots of talk of them getting a night nurse. Again, there is nothing wrong with this. But I highly doubt Kate gets up every 2 hours like a normal woman plus deals with George on top of it, because she is not normal. And if Kate has to make a one hour appearance somewhere, not a 9-5 job, she has so much help that one of them takes care of the kids leading up to her appearance so that she can take the time to look good and get sleep. Plus she has someone do her hair and put our her clothes, she could even hire someone to do her makeup if she wanted. All she has to worry about is showing up and being friendly for about an hour. Can we just call a spade a spade? Kate as far as most moms go, has it pretty well off and she should since she is a Royal. There is nothing wrong with that. But to women everywhere who do it on their own with no help, please don’t compare kate to them. My mom was a single mom, raising 3 kids on her own with a full time job and then some in order to pay the bills. Kate's life is nothing like that. That is why it is frustrating when someone compares Kate to a normal hard working mother. Again, Kate is fine for a Royal, but can we please be honest about how easy she has it and not pretend she is doing this all on her own? She will never fully relate to what you are going through. Such is the life of a Royal. Jessica what you are going through is hard work and I wish you much luck as having 2 children is always a transition. But Kate will never have to go through what you are going through. Be proud of yourself! You are tough and will do great!

Stephanie, I don't think taking more than 2 months off is bad. I only said it selfishly because that means we may not see Kate for a long time, that is all :(. I secretively hope she will make an appearance here and there. I will be going through withdrawals, lol.

I don't think I've ever commented on this subject per se, but I think this is taking the old "Working Mom vs Stay at Home Mom" to a whole different level? Yes she is Royal; Yes She has help; But...... (Not to be Sexist or Insensitive, as I am So Fond & Impressed With Her) Her Main Job is to Produce an Heir & a Spare; To Provide Love & Nurturing Support to 2 Future Kings of England! Let's just pause on that..... That's a Completely Unique Set of Jobs That Only She Can Do! There is No One To Take Kate's Place in Those 2 Roles as Wife; Best Friend; Love & Confidant to Her Husband, a Future King of England! Then She is The Only Mother That George Will Ever Have! She is His First Teacher; Source of Love & Comfort That Only a Mother Can Give! These are Roles That Can't Be Replaced, No Matter How Many Helpers They Have! When George Wants His "Mommy" That's Kate! When William Wants & Needs His Wife, Thats Kate! Think how much Diana loved William & Harry..... But for all The $ & "Help" in the world, She Couldn't Provide The One Thing She Wanted.... A Stable Loving Relationship With Her Husband & Therefore the resulting Loving, Nurturing & Secure Family Unit for William & Harry. So While Not Touching on Any Other Aspect of Her "Job" as Current Duchess of Cambridge; in Training for Future "Job" as Pincess of Wales & Ultimately in Training for Her Future "Job" as Queen of England..... Her Most Important Job is The Loving & Providing of a Nurturing Comforting Home Life for Her Husband (Future Monarch & Children (1 of whom will be A Future Monarch) & as All Mothers Know..... No One Can Truly Replace You as Wife & Mommy! Also, I know I'm from the States & can't Really know how it feels to have a "Monarchy", with regards to Taxes & Politics Etc, but A Huge Thing We Try To Focus On as We Try To Prepare To Vote, is Our Sense of What Kind of Well Balanced Person We Want as President....& a Huge Factor Used is Assessing How Healthy is Their Marriage & Family Life, as an Indicator of Future Job Success!? Also While Some Political Wives may have had a career at one time..... By The Time Their Husband is Running for President, They Have Left That Behind & Are Devoted Full Time To Supporting Their Husband (as we've never had a Women President yet) & Being Mom or Grandmother To Their Children! I Hope I a Communicated My Thoughts Well & Didn't Vere Too Far a Off Course? To Wrap Up.... I Think She's Setting a Great Example to Her & Younger Generations, That Just like The Charities She Supports, She's Showing How Important It Is To Create & Nurture a Healthy Happy Family:)Thanks,Becca

Thank you, Becca, you have described Kate's situation so very well. And since the President is Head of State as well as Head of Government, your comparison is apt. We all look to our national leaders to reflect who we are and how we see our society. Kate indeed has a unique responsibility to support and prepare the Heads of State of the future. Since I remember all of the Queen's reign, I know that she has had a stabilizing effect on the world. I wish she could stabilize it a bit more, and I'm sure she does, too! She can leave her role to her heirs, however, with the hope that they will be effective leaders in their turn. When that turn comes, and even earlier, Kate will be one of the representatives of her nation, as well as the wife and mother who influences the ability of her husband and son, and maybe a grandchild someday. I wish I might be around to witness her role as queen!

Krazy Kate! Wearing heels on her off-time while pregnant, LOL. It is a sign of how well she is feeling. Although, perhaps she had also had a lunch date with a girlfriend. Shopping for William (or her dad or brother if a birthday is soon?) is what I thought.

As for Really Wild Clothing, I love their stuff. I even e-mailed them once about an international order I wanted to place...and they never responded! :-( I figured it isn't my responsibility to chase them down when I'm the one who wants to give them $.

Yes, I LOVED her look last Easter...and the footage of them all dressed up on the grass with George.

I like everything from Really Wild Clothing except mabe the last hat. Nice that hey can succeed so well with both town and country attire. I'm not sure I like.my favorite of Kate's dresses in the buff pink color. It's a bit bland.

Princess Beatrice looked very lovely at the Windsor Easter service. That outfit may have been her best look ever. It was a nice family gathering.

The coat was odd. Possible she loves that coat and her Mom said fine wear it instead of having a fiuss about it. I have had kids that just were crazy in love with a specific piece of clothing long after they outgrew. Also possible they had not tried on lately and she shot up in height. But it does look too small all over. Ali

Ali, it doesn't look to me as if Louise dresses the way she wants. Even if a child doesn't know how to put an outfit together, I doubt it would be this, complete with the white tights and those little girl shoes.

The poor child looks like she stepped out of a 1950's black and white photograph. I think Sophie goes out of her way to make her daughter dress/look old fashioned to please the Queen. Other royal children have dressed properly for special occasions while still managing to current.

I don't understand why Lady Louise is always dressed like this either but I don't think its to please the Queen. She and her sister Margaret were always photographed well turned out in pretty dresses and coats. Similarly, Princess Anne was dressed in some very pretty things when she was young. If I didn't know better I'd think she was wearing her mother's hand me downs. I do agree with you royalfan, that LL isn't picking out her own clothes at all. If the DoC dresses any future princesses like this I'll be sorely disappointed.

Lady Louise is only dressed like this for formal royal occasions, like church or Trooping the Colour. Whenever there are pictures of her or her brother on informal outings they both wear the same things all other kids do, like jeans and T-shirts.

Erika, I agree that Elizabeth and Margaret were always well turned out, but the style was in keeping with the times. Considering how mean children can be, I feel sorry for Louise. It must be difficult enough to stand out from her classmates without being dressed in clothes that could be taken from her grandmother's childhood closet.

The clothing choice could be for a range of reasons. But looking a certain way (ie to look old fashioned or to please a Grandparent) does not mean wearing too small clothes. The too small aspect of this coat to me meant either she grew quickly or she Louise loves this coat. I have three very sophisticated upper class kids all of whom wore stuff they loved but from a fashion sense or a fit did not work. I let them be😊, knowing all to well that within a year they would only be focused on wearing the latest most popular stuff. 😊Ali

The coat and its s levees are just slightly short. But the real problem is the skirt. What a good illustration of hem lengths. The Countess of Wessex and Princess Beatrice wore the most flattering length, just at the lower edge of the kneecap. Autumn Philips displayed her knees awkwardly, and Lady Louise's skirt was too long as well as too full and in a print fabric that made the coat look smaller than it is. A short, straight skirt in a solid color would have coordinated with it well. She is also old enough to wear sheer hosiery and pretty flats instead of Mary Janes. Soon, I expect she will.

Hello, Leo. By 'soon' I meant in a year or two, when Lady Louise is a teenager. Princess Isabella wore black tights and flats with a lavender gown to her grandmother's birthday concert (and small diamond brooches in her hair). She looked lovely.

Princess Isabella did look lovely. I agree. My impression...she was dressed like a little lady but, I'm sorry to say, Lady Louise tends to look like she is dressed like a very old fashioned child. There's young and there's almost frumpy and I do hate to use that word for a child but it is the impression I have whenever I see photos of LL on special occasions.

Thank you for the cool post Charlotte - interesting to see the poll results. I hope you and everyone had a lovely Easter. We got up at the crack of dawn to hide the easter eggs and the hunt was even more fun this year as we had young rellies out from the UK & Italy who really got into it. Kids really make these celebrations special and can you imagine Prince George with his Easter eggs??

All the clothes look great for spring. I especially like the wrap dress in the Liberty print.

I liked the Really Wild clothing. The coats were really nice! Can't wait to hear what the Duke and Duchess name the second child. Philip Arthur James sounds like a great royal name! I liked Grace and Caroline for a girl.

I think they might combine names from his ( including Diana's side) and her parents, for the second child. Spencer, Caroline, (Francis/Frances--- although the male and female versions of it of Diana's and Micheal's middle names, it some how reminds me of Kate's photo disaster as well as Diana's death in France). Somehow, I like the name Francis on the Pope since the prayers of St. Francis is a universal message ( "Lord make me an instrument of peace, where there is war let me saw peace.../ and goes on / the idea being to pray to become a force of good against/inspite of bad).

The British Bookies are betting on Alice. Is that not the name of Prince Philip's mother's name?. She has an interesting history. Although challenged through war, mental illness, deafness etc., she became a nun in her later life. Kate had done some mental health related visits in this pregnancy. May be a coincidence, but they could also be geared to name her Alice. Generally, for an innocent child coming to the world, one should not carry the burden of having a name as so famous in a very complex way and incomparable as Diana's and as historically complex as within their family as Alice. May be in another generation/their grand kids can be named those names.

I think we forget that Diana wasn't an icon to William, she was mum and to honour your mum by using her name surely shouldn't be harmful for a child.

Alice is a bit complex as Philip's mother was an interesting, brave but also troubled person and she is the closest link as a family name. (Other than Alice of Gloucester who I doubt William knew well.) It would make a nice parallel to George - the queen's father, the duke's mother.

I tend to think that William and Kate will be most likely to chose names they like within a traditional framework.

Personally, I like some things Letizia wears, particularly for formal occasions, but her pantsuits do sometimes get a bit too ‘office work’ for my taste. And in my book, wearing a pantsuit to church on Easter is hardly the height of fashion.

I'm the original anon and to anon 12:19 - I am a reader of this blog very regularly and very rarely see discussion about Letitia and her clothes. I was make a positive comment about her and for the record had not ulterior motive to Kate so I'm not sure why your comment seemed so snarky. Perhaps I misread it.

Have you looked at her recently Rebecca? I agree with royal fan that she's become more daring after becoming queen. I love her ombre red shoes and mixture of hairstyles and she had this awesome navy Mango brand jumpsuit recently that I'm tempted to buy. I like the office look actually - it seems professional to me, but it's her pairing of items that seem like good fashion sense for the modern working woman.

It may be generational or simply preference. But I have no thought towards pants or skirts or dresses looking better or more professional. I wear jeans for casual, skirts dresses for all other, as I find them more comfortable. Once in a bit I pul on a pair of slacks for something, but usually based only on how cold I think it will be. Catherine for whatever reason just prefers skirts and dresses for anything other than Her running around attire. If you love pants then I agree her choices probably are not your cup of tea. Ali

Anon 3:37, Skirts and dresses look professional too, that's not what I mean. I actually really love wearing dresses/skirts, but do wear slacks on occasion, depending on the function. It just feels sort of one note for me after several years to never see her in professional slacks (we've seen jeans). But then, the Queen doesn't wear slacks really, so maybe it's something along those lines?

The Pemberley coat and dress are scrumptious! Love the fit of the Gatsby coat. Kate would look lovely in the Kilburn Rose dress with that hat.Disappointed not to see them at church but I imagine if they went it just takes away from the Easter celebration and becomes one big photo op. People seem more relaxed about baby 2 as with any second baby I suppose. Sigh it would be nice to see a few pictures more of George. Happy Easter all!

I agree about the lack of seeing Prince George - Here'a a great article by Camilla Tominey here that sums up my views well: http://www.express.co.uk/comment/columnists/camilla-tominey/568415/Camilla-Tominey-Prince-George-public-eye-lottery-winners-bullied-teachers

Penelope, saw the article earlier. Thanks.If George were my baby I would probably do a few more photo shots to pacify the crowds. The British Royals are in high profile picture demand. Such a pain. Blah, blah yes I know that's their job.

My guess is William and Kate are deciding what's best for them and their little family, and will combine their activities with the royal family when they can, on their terms. They probably chose a quiet Easter as it's now the last few weeks until the new baby arrives and they're probably focussing on George.

I think I read that the work taking place at Anmer is just painting, and they're planning on being back in the house very soon (if not already?) They've been caught out in the past as in when George was born, so would want to avoid that this time... I'm sure we'll see a photo of George at the hospital Sarah, and possibly a family shot when the baby is a couple of months old - hopefully!

I'm thinking that Prince William wouldn't want George at the hospital in front of the media, I can imagine the nanny going through the back entrance with him, but hopefully I'm wrong. I think they will definitely release a family photo though when the new Baby's a month old.

Your observations are interesting Fiona & all very plausible. I agree with your comment on the previous post about their wanting to make Amner a relaxed family home. It'll be interesting to see if they're able to have more privacy in Norfolk and if the locals are protective of them as they were in Anglesey.

If Kate is able to leave the hospital as soon after the birth as last time, I don't think we'll see little George. I do think there may be an informal "family photograph" within three or four weeks. How old was baby George when Grandpa Middleton took that family photograph last time?

Perhaps, with William's protective nature after what he endured with his mother and the media, we may not see George at the Lindo Wing. We can't really blame him for that, even though he went to visit his little brother Harry. Each to their own. I do think they will release a photo of the family of four within a couple of weeks. Yes, Lynn, perhaps Michael will take the next one! I think from memory George was just a couple of weeks old when that photo was taken with William, Kate and George and Lupo in the Middleton's garden? I do think this couple will do things their own way, while still keeping with tradition where they choose to. From what I gather the Queen respects this, as she has shown she learns from the past...

I'm leaning towards George not making an appearance at the hospital. Hopefully, Kate and Baby Cambridge will be able to go home the next day so it wouldn't be a long "absence" for George. And I agree that William (given his experience) is very protective and may not want to expose his son to the madness. (And it may be enough for George to process once they arrive at home with his new brother or sister. :)

But I too hope they release a family photo within the first week or two.

I don't know - I remember the lovely description of Diana waiting for William in hospital with her arms outstretched. (Not sure whose description that was.) I always think seeing a baby sibling in hospital gives a very young child a feeling of where this newcomer came from - no storks.

As for the madness, I suspect it would bother William more than George who seemed curious but not particularly disturbed by it in New Zealand and Australia. But regardless of how the introduction goes, I hope the siblings will be as close as William and Harry. That has to do with long-term development, and with both parents being close to their siblings, there should be a lovely influence.

I believe it's possible Kate might have one more but I doubt more than that. Charles has spoken out about over-population and William has mentioned two, so while babies tend to happen as they happen, I would be surprised if they go on to have a brood.

I think that this is an interesting article and a fair perspective: http://www.express.co.uk/comment/columnists/camilla-tominey/568415/Camilla-Tominey-Prince-George-public-eye-lottery-winners-bullied-teachers

Perhaps that. Or maybe the exterior shots of Lyme Park. Magnificent. When I read I still see Colin Firth as Darcy. I couldn't get into the movie with Keira Knightley because two hours just isn't long enough to capture Pride & Prejudice and he was no Colin Firth.

I loved P&P from 1995 with Colin Firth. Bought the video and re-watch it regularly. Sigh. The best film version of this story ever!I am heading over to the UK in a couple of weeks for vacation. Maybe I will get to visit the Pemberly site!

I couldn't get into the Colin Firth version. I actually really like the Matthew McFadden one. I think he is great in it! Keira is pretty decent as well. All I know, is all the talk about Pride and Prejudice has given me a big desire to now watch the film :)

LOL, Kat, and I couldn't get into the Matthew McFadden one because Keira Knightley was in it. There is something about her that just drives me batty; seems like all she's good at is pouting and simpering, so I did not particularly enjoy it. Although I thought Rosamund Pike made a lovely Jane. But I liked Lizzie better in the other version and I adored Mr. Bingley in that one. So cute!

bluhare, I definitely know where you are coming from. I don't think Keira was great, just decent. She did not deserve an academy award nomination, that's for sure! Along with the pouting, she has these looks. I don't know how to describe them, but they are sooooo overly dramatic. It's like when she is upset she has to look down, then to each side before she walks away. Its so silly. There is a girl on youtube who does this spot on impersonation of Keira, including the looks I am talking about. Its titled Keira Knightley video diary. The girl is so good-you should look it up. Anyway, I should say I like that version of P&P in spite of Keira ;). Rosamund was great though I agree. Like I said, I have never been able to get into the other version with Colin, so I don't remember the Lizzie. I should try watching it now that I am a little older. Although, I warn you bluehare-if I don't like that version after you said how great it was, this may end our bluKat consultation business and I may hunt you down and make you watch all of Keira's movies ;). Just be forewarned.

Although I adore Colin Firth, I have to say I really liked the earlier BBC P @ P dating from around 1975 because to me, it was the closest to capturing the wit of Jane Austen, and I loved the actress who played Elizabeth. While I enjoyed the beauty of the McFadden one, I thought it was more Brontesque than Austen - maybe it was that rainstorm. They all have their merits though!

Hi Charlotte, I first want to say thank you for providing such a well-written, enjoyable blog. I check it every day for your updates. I read the comments as often as I can. I saw an anon comment that I think may have been directed at me and has since been removed so if you choose not to publish this, I understand, I just want to address it with you at least. I found another blog ("Blog B") this weekend that is very similar in your tone and content of this blog and I recognized some of the commenters who have been kind to me on this blog. That made me comfortable. I have been on a few other blogs lately that are filled with such hate that I was actually shocked. So when I found Blog B, I was so happy that I might be able to get involved and feel comfortable commenting so I posted an introduction using the name I use here. My comments were positive and I was welcomed. Those were also positive comments. An anon commented here that there were some back-handed things being said elsewhere about this blog. IF those comments were addressing my situation, I would like to say that is an incorrect assumption. I wouldn't post a negative comment about your blog as I love your content. I don't feel comfortable commenting here as some people (like that anon) are likely to take things the wrong way or see them through their filters in a way that I don't mean. Because Blog B has a more tame environment, I thought it was safe to get more involved there while still hitting your blog for information, as always. I'm not interested in debating in a negative way and I'm also not interested in smack-talking YOU, in particular. That is not my intention. I am also not interested in telling commenters here how they should go about enjoying this blog even though I have selfishly encouraged a gentler environment in the past. So, if you saw my comment on Blog B and interpreted it as an attack of this blog, please accept my apologies for what I thought was a positive introduction of myself in a new, friendly environment. And if I am personalizing something that wasn't about me, well, I guess I need to stop feeling so self-important! :-) Just in the chance that I did inadvertently something that hurt your feelings, I wanted to explain and apologize. I will continue to enjoy your blog as I have for years -- it is wonderful. Thank you for taking a minute to read this.

Thank you so much for your comment. I greatly appreciate your support and all of you who take the time to read and comment on the blog. I removed the comment you mentioned following some thought as it seemed somewhat inappropriate and could have referred to anything (I can tell you, this blog gets a good bashing in a few places LOL).

But you know what this is a wonderful opportunity to say I feel we have had and continue to have plenty of interesting discussions here. I know it gets very heated on both sides, perhaps overly so for some and I apologise for that. I want you all to feel free and open to express your views here without concern.

When I receive comments I don't hit the 'Delete' button freely, I try to take a moment to see the posters point of view and where they're coming from whether or not I agree.

As for other Kate sites, there are so many enormously talented ladies covering the Duchess with their own style, it is *never* a competition, I cannot stress that enough. Personally, I really enjoy What Kate Wore and the lady who runs it Susan has so much journalistic talent and flair. I sit back and read her posts like any other reader. We started around the same time and it's been amazing to see the sites grow.

Running this blog has become the best hobby one could have and again I'm so thankful (and shocked) people come here everyday. I would ask posters as always to respect each other and the views put forward. If anyone has specific issues please feel free to get in touch at any time!

Again, thank you Yankee, there is nothing in the world to apologise for :)

Charlotte I just want you to know that I think your site is perfect! I have tried several other Kate blogs before this one (including Blog B above) and it took me a little while until I found yours. Other sites I have found either to be to negative to the point of being mean or far to praising to the point of being nauseating. Where as your blog is amazing! I love your tone. It is clear you like Kate and the BRF, but you don't idolize her, which is so refreshing. I also appreciate that you allow all types of comments and points of view. Instead of only the comments that are along the same view point as the author. So, not to steal from Goldie Locks, but your site is just right, so please don't change a thing :). I don't bother with any other Kate blogs now. I look forward each day to seeing if you posted anything new. A big thank you!!!

Charlotte, I can't stop looking at the Really Wild Mandarin dress. What a beautiful piece! Love the color and simplicity! Why do you keep posting clothing I can't afford?! Thanks for all of your posts! I'm anxiously awaiting news of the press conference on Thursday!

I've been abroad so am belatedly posting my name choices. For a girl, I would love Charlotte, Alexandra, Mary or Alice, then followed by - Elizabeth Diana Caroline. This would cover the queen - and it would be lovely if the baby arrived on her birthday or on St. George's Day - Diana, Charles and Carole. I'm startled at the number of people who think Diana should be swept under the rug. She was William's mother and will never see her grandchildren. At a time, where there is a huge campagne to promote Camilla, it would be nice if Diana was remembered in some way. Should the baby be as late as April 29, St. Catherine of Siena's day, perhaps she should carry her mother's name.

I actually think it might be nice to have Elizabeth as a first name and the baby called Lizzie as in Pride and Prejudice. Unlikely though.

For a boy, I like Richard Arthur Philip Charles Michael John in some combination. John would be nice because it honours the late Lord Spencer and Diana was devoted to her father. Philip has given so much service to the crown that it would be nice to see him honoured. Using the grandfathers' names as middle names would also seem appropriate. James is more troublesome because it is the name of Kate's brother. I prefer to see an older generation honoured. But William and Kate don't act as royals have in the past and may just choose names they like.

Weighing in on an awkward subject, I was also disappointed to see Yankee's comments on Blog B. It seemed unnecssary to make such comparisons as well as inaccurate. Newcomers to Blog B should know that it has raised very controversal subject matters at times leading to comments with a wide range of opinions. This isn't a criticism, just a statement of fact. I've never seen Charlotte raise a discussion of whether Kate's motives when she was dating William. I occasionally participate in comments there under a given name and would more often save for lack of time but to my mind the two blogs are apples and oranges, both worthy of attention along with What Kate Wore.

I will simply end this by saying I find Charlotte's style and historical depth wonderful and always enjoy her postings. The freedom she gives her readers is welcome in my eyes - I admire the royal family but don't think it is wise to be blinkered in today's world. Charlotte has been caring to her readers and she deserves more respect then to have her blog mentioned in a negative way on another site.

It would be nice to see William and Kate more openly observe Easter as he is expected to be head of the church some day - but perhaps he doesn't plan to take on that role. Charles has hinted that could be an issue. But if Kate can go shopping, she can go to church, so perhaps they attended locally.

I'm sorry, but I have to speak up here. There was absolutely nothing wrong with Yankee's comment on Blog B. It isn't my comment to copy and share here, but you have no idea how tempted I am.

What drama over someone expressing sincere and innocent happiness at finding a new (as in one more) blog on a subject she enjoys. And how that translates into anything negative about Charlotte or her blog is beyond me.

Leo, I only said I read other blogs and somehow missed hers, enjoyed it and was happy to see some commenters I recognized. I in no way made a comparison to this blog. My comment was purely positive. I am sad that you, as one whose comments I have always enjoyed, came to the conclusion that I would disparage Charlotte when I've only been complimentary to her in my postings. I found that environment to be friendly, and even though the previous post contained some controversy, I thought it all worked out refreshingly well. That has not a thing to do with this blog. Can't a compliment be paid without others thinking it's a back-handed slap to someone else? Please read what was actually written instead of putting words in my mouth.

Yankee, I'm sorry if I read your remarks the wrong way but I felt I should say that I saw a comparison that perhaps you didn't mean. If I was wrong, I certainly apologise. I've always enjoyed your comments here very much too. I have to add that I saw your comment on Blog B before I even read here, so my reaction came solely from reading your comment there. I never saw the Anonymous comment referred to above.

I've always thought Charlotte a very kind and wonderful moderator so it might have been your remark about the other author's "involvement with your readers" that took me aback. I'm not disputing that the other author is involved with her readers - it just seemed as if you found that something unique to Blog B where Charlotte has always been very much involved with her readers.

Having been involved in the St. Andrew's discussion on Blog B and having noticed, although I had no time to participate - the discussion on Charles and George, I also was a bit surprised by the description of tame for "Blog B". As I said in my above comment, this isn't a criticism. I enjoy following both blogs - I just don't like to see either pigeon-holed. I'll leave it at that and hope you continue to comment here.

I've been on holiday the last few weeks, so perhaps I missed something somewhere. Hope we can all go back to looking forward to the royal baby.

LOL, hi Bella. We have just been referring to the other blog as Blog B as to not use the blog's real name. I would love to tell you the name of the blog, but I think it is better to not post the name here. You just have to search for it. All I can do is give you a hint, the author's name is Jane and the title of the blog is very long. It is not a bad blog, just very idolizing of Kate and all things regarding Kate (more like a fairytale type of view). The comments section there only allows comments that praise Kate as that is the author's stance on her. It is nicely written, but not everyone's cup of tea, including mine :). Good luck finding it.

I have read Blog B and the way it is run is not my cup of tea. The owner makes no bones about the fact that she is an ardent admirer of Catherine and will only allow comments that express such a view. She is absolutely undemocratic about it and frankly it became a bore to read her blog that basically said the same thing in five different overtyly effusive ways. She once posted an extremely unfavorable and unpleasant view on Sophie and was called out for it in a straightforward way. I think that the particular comment somehow was posted without her noticing but she immediately took it down as soon as she found out. She also started a discussion speculating on the motives of Kate in going to St Andrews. The language she uses is flattering to Catherine to the point of being fulsome, and I could not take it any longer and quit reading it at some point.

Anon, I totally agree with you. When I read a blog I always think about if Kate met this person what would she think? With Charlotte I think she would be flattered because she is a person who enjoys the BRF. Nothing out of the ordinary, kind of what most of us are and those who meet Kate are. With Blog B, I think she would be scared of the author since she is so obsessed. She makes Kate sound like a God, I think it would creep Kate out. :).

When I consider the fuss that positive comments posted on another blog caused here (the thread that has since been deleted), I find it beyond ironic that some folks at this address have no problem posting *negative* comments about another blog.

If it isn't your cup of tea (not the first time I've read this), no one is asking you to drink it.

Wonderful I love a little over indulgence in my life! Fulsome! Love it! Not happy with ripping shreds off of each other we will now start on another blog yup the ladies of the duchess Kate blog are all alive and well!

Went to blog B and what a total yawn fest...,my opinion..for comparison purposes...this blog is like the New Yorker vs. Blog B being like US Weekly. This blog has substance in the postings and comments section. After leaving blog B and returning to Charlottes blog was like coming home. I hope that we can always have lively, intelligent debates here...Charlotte, i understand if you dont want to post my comment....i am not trying to disparage blog B....i only want to state my opinion.

Up until your post anonymous, the comments were all about the blog, not posters. As usual, some of you always disappoint. And it's quite ironic that your comment probably wouldn't have passed muster on Blog B.

There was no fuss on the other thread, royalfan. There was one post and two replies (one of which was "Huh?") that were deleted.

No need to repeat details as the comments speak for themselves, but it is unfortunate that this has become the hot topic AFTER Charlotte deleted a thread and put a period on the subject so very graciously.

You may be surprised to know I actually agree with you royalfan. There's the unwritten 11th commandment, "thou shalt not participate in blog wars". People who like Jane's way of running a blog gravitate there. People who don't gravitate here. Plenty of room for everybody.

Although I agree with Anon and CuriousKat on the other blog which is a site for 15 year-old fan girls, I must add the writer stated a few times that she prefers to avoid quarelling, arguing on her blog. So only overwhelmingly positive things are published, sometimes a bit bashing here and there but no real discussion are welcomed. We can of course differ whether it is good or not but still her blog, we readers can follow or leave her. I also stick to this blog and Susan's.

Thank youn Charlotte for the enormous effort you put into your blog every time, I love it truly. As for the name I hope they consider Charlotte of course;)

My favourite for a girl was Victoria, though I do like any of the top names selected from your poll (Elizabeth, Charlotte, Alexandra etc). I often thought Victoria Elizabeth Diana might be nice. I think there is some kind of poetic significance in naming a daughter Victoria, the year the Queen will reign as long as Queen Victoria did, as a thoughtful nod to both Queens. I believe I read somewhere that they try not to give the same first name as living member of the Royal family as a first name, so Alexandra could be out (Princess Alexandra, the Queen's cousin). And though Alice is a nice name, I was surprised to find it topping the bookie's charts, unlike the name George before he was born, which made perfect sense. :)

I found it as I said earlier, and I tried to read it but YAWN- I came running back home to Charlotte. Thank goodness for you Charlotte and all of the posters on this site. We may not always agree but at least we speak from our hearts.

Love the Pemberley and Gatsby coats. those blouses, eeuw. Great coloros for a polished professional look. Hope Kate thinks so too.I remain hopeful that Alice and Phillip are the favorites, in combination with Charlotte, Elizabeth, Arthur or James, as appropriate. Although a boy named Phillip Elizabeth would surely be a first in monarchy. . I don't think anyone in the royal family will ever forget Diana but think it is unlikely a royal child will have that name while the Queen lives.

This is insane and I'm sincerely gobsmacked by the comments many have posted here bashing another site, especially as that is what was (incorrectly) so offensive in the first place. As bluhare said in the original observation of my comment, that is not cricket. Charlotte has provided us an opportunity for a pretty perfect place here...it's really unfortunate that it is as aggressive as it is.

The irony of this whole thing is pretty striking, for sure! I wonder if part of the rush of comments here is that the other owner has pretty much banned negative comments or responds to them with very long diatribes questioning the intelligence of any critics? I guess that backfired!

People were talking about their opinion of that blog. It was hardly bashing. They don't like how it's run, and there's plenty of people here who never shut up about how they don't like how this place is run. So it's pretty hard to sit here and listen to people complaining out of both sides of their mouths, frankly.

hey everybody! apparently i am behind the times as once i found charlottes blog that was it for me. i never even went searching for another blog and i still dont get the twitter thing, i consider myself lucky i figured out how to comment:) i like to read all the comments and think about others point of view, although i dont agree with some of them, it does make me wonder where they are coming from. i think an interesting poll would be to see where we are all from, seems like everywhere in the world! and what ages we are, i also have a feeling that is also a wide range! its a fun group here and we are lucky to have a place we all enjoy (even while sparing) and yes check daily for new comments or new postings from Charlotte. so thank you charlotte for giving me a wonderful place to go and thanks to all my fellow commentators who keep it interesting whether or not i agree with them! hoping for a boy, arthur phillip something! - Caroline

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